In recognition of their commitment to the preserving Bendigo’s rich history, Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP is proud to announce the Bendigo Historical Society has been selected as a recipient of the Victorian Government's Local History Grants Program.

The organisation has received a grant of $13,788.00 for their History House Community Museum Project. The funding will contribute towards the development of a small modern community exhibition space where high quality showcases, graphics and multimedia can be displayed.

This project is a long-held vision for Bendigo Historical Society, and, once created, would become Bendigo’s first dedicated social history exhibition space. There are currently 40,000 items in the society’s collection.

“The Local History Grants Program is all about supporting our local historians and community groups. I am delighted Bendigo Historical Society has received this grant which will showcase and share our rich local history for generations to come," Maree Edwards MP, Member for Bendigo West, said.

“Bendigo Historical Society play an important role in preserving Bendigo’s history – and I’m delighted that our government is supporting them to continue their outstanding work.”

The Andrews Government is continuing its support for the preservation and celebration of Victoria's local history with $423,000 to be provided for the next round of the Local History Grants Program and Victorian Community History Awards. This announcement coincides with the unveiling of the 2022/23 round of Local History Grant recipients.

Administered by Public Record Office Victoria, these programs play a crucial role in providing substantial contributions and recognition for history projects throughout the State.

The 2022/23 round of funding sees a total of 42 community groups being awarded grants, a testament to the vitality of Victoria's local history initiatives.

The Victorian Community History Awards, a collaborative effort between Public Record Office Victoria and the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, have been a cornerstone of historical recognition since 1998.

These awards encompass a variety of categories, culminating in the prestigious Victorian Premier's History Award, which offers a grant of $5,000. The call for entries for the 2023 awards will open soon, inviting all history enthusiasts to contribute to the ongoing narrative of Victoria's past.

For further information about these initiatives, eligibility criteria, and application details, please visit prov.vic.gov.au.